The ambulance service is urging people in Suffolk to take extra care this bank holiday weekend after calls to the service increased by 17% at the same time last year.

Almost 8,000 calls were made to the east of England’s emergency ambulance service between May 23 and 25, 2015.

The public is being urged to take steps to help avoid another spike in demand following a further 8% rise in calls during the May Day bank holiday and 17% increase in demand over Easter.

Marcus Bailey, consultant paramedic for the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST), said: “We can all do our bit and take measures to avoid a seeking medical help over the long weekend.

“If you have a long-term health condition, make sure that you’ve collected your prescription prior to the weekend and if you are unwell, don’t let it deteriorate and get checked out in advance.

“We want to provide the best care possible and to be there as quickly as possible for those with life-threatening conditions such as a stroke, heart attack, or for those with breathing difficulties.

“If it is not life-threatening, please contact NHS 111, log on to NHS Choices for information, or use walk-in centres.”

The Trust has also issued the following advice ahead of the bank holiday this weekend:

- Make sure medicine cabinets are fully stocked with pain killers, after-sun, plasters, and antihistamines

- Wear sunscreen when going outdoors and prepare for changes in the weather

- For those having barbecues, ensure it is lit safely and that food is cooked thoroughly

- Only swim in open water when there is a lifeguarded on duty

- Know your limits when consuming alcohol and alternate alcoholic drinks with soft drinks or water

- Be safe on the roads and keep a good distance from the car in front to help avoid accidents

If you need urgent medical advice over the bank holiday weekend, the NHS 111 number is available 24 hours a day.

People should only dial 999 when there is a life-threatening emergency.